Carli
Carli
It’s nearly impossible to get an International Driving Permit in Washington State. Unless you live in the Seattle Metro area, prepare to drive to another state.
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What is an International Driving Permit, and why do you need it?
An International Driving Permit or IDP, is an internationally recognized document that allows you to drive legally and rent a car in a foreign country, in tandem with your valid local driver’s license. The permit has information in 10 different languages, and applies to 150 countries around the world.
There are two main reasons to purchase an IDP for your international travel. The first is if you have any encounters with police officers (through citations or traffic violations) or if you get into an accident. In some countries police officers may give a citation (or at least try to shake you down for money) for failing to provide documentation of an international driving permit.
The second reason is for renting a car. Now, I have rented a car in 8 countries around the world, and have never once been asked for an IDP. That said, there are many countries now, especially in Europe that will not allow you to rent a car without an IDP present. For example, you have to have an international driving permit in Italy, or car rental companies will cancel your reservation.
While it seems like a little bit of a cash grab, you’re better off having one and not needing it, vs. needing an IDP and not having one.
Getting an international Driving Permit in Washington State
There are two ways to get an international driving permit in Washington, online or in person. However, if you live outside the Seattle metro, or along the Oregon/Washington border, be prepared to drive.
IDP online applications
The US State Department has only authorized the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) to issue IDPs.
Both websites have easy to fill out online forms, and outline the requirements to apply online. However, the application process can take 7-10 business days to process, plus the time for shipping.
IDP in person applications
There is only (1) location in the entire state of Washington for international driving permits. As of June 2025, AAA Washington closed all retail stores, and with it all locations to purchase an international driving permit in Washington. The good news is, the AAA corporate office in Bellevue now has on site IDP application services. They’re open Monday – Friday 10am – 5:30pm and Saturday 10am – 2pm.
Outside of the Puget Sound, the closest locations for most Washingtonians are along the Oregon border. AAA Oregon has locations in Astoria, Pendleton and throughout the Portland metro. For the folks in Spokane, you’re kind of SOL. The closest drive is the Missoula, MT location, which is around 3 hours.
The options for buying an IDP in Washington are limited, so plan ahead when you can. If you choose to apply in person, bring (2) passport photos. You can take them there, but if you already have copies (or digital copies to print) then you’ll know you like the photo already.
Should you purchase your IDP in person or online?
If you plan ahead, the online international driving permit application is the best for time and convenience. But, this only works if you order your permit well in advance of your travels.
If you’re short on time due to procrastination (or in my time, not knowing the stores closed) then going in person (if you can travel to the nearest AAA location) is the only option. That said, the time spent at AAA to get the permit in person was less than 10 minutes to fill out the forms, provide your documentation and pay.
International Driving Permit Cost
The first time I got an International Driving permit was in December of 2023. The cost was $20 plus tax. In two years it’s doubled ☹️
The IDP cost for an online permit vs purchasing in person is almost the same. Both charge a $20 fee for the permit. That price hasn’t changed since 2023, but unfortunately for us as consumers, AAA has added on processing fees that make Ticketmaster look good.
The total for an IDP when purchased online is $30 (permit + online photo fee (why???)) plus shipping, which starts at $15. This puts the all in cost at $45, using the cheapest shipping method.
When purchasing an international driving permit in Seattle, the total is $50. This cost is $20 for the permit and $30 (outrageous) for the processing fee, which also includes a photo if you need one. I printed my own photos at Walgreens for under $1 for two photos.
FAQs
Where can I get an international driving permit in Seattle?
The only location to get an international driving permit in Seattle is at the AAA office in Bellevue.
Where can I get an international driving permit in Washington State?
The only location to get an international driving permit in Washington State is at the AAA office in Bellevue.
Do I need an International Driving Permit for Canada or Mexico?
No, per the US State Department, if you have a valid United States license, you do not need an IDP.
How long does an international driving permit last?
Your international driving permit is good for 1 year from the activation date. You may purchase an IDP up to 6 months in advance of your trip.
How to get an international driver’s permit?
International driving permits can be purchased online or in person at AAA if your state has AAA retail stores.
What is the AAA IDP processing time?
For online applications, expect 7-10 business days. For in person applications you can get an IDP in 15 minutes or less.
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